Mobile gaming is not just a trend; it’s a revolution.
With the power of our pocket-sized devices, we can now immerse ourselves in captivating games that rival traditional gaming consoles.
More and more people are enjoying games on their iPhones, thanks to the fantastic graphics, performance, and variety of genres available.
Whether you’re looking for action, adventure, strategy, puzzle, or anything in between, there’s a mobile game for you.
But how do you choose from thousands of options on the App Store? Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered. In this post, we’ll look at some of the best iPhone games you can install and play right now.
Before we dive into the list, here are some useful tips to optimize your iPhone settings for gaming:
- Turn on “Do Not Disturb mode” to avoid interruptions from calls, messages, and notifications. ⛔
- Adjust the brightness and volume to suit your preferences and surrounding. 🔆
- Enable “Low Power Mode” to save battery life and prevent overheating. 🪫
- Adjust your device’s settings by enabling “Reduce Motion” and “Increase Contrast” to enhance battery life and minimize distractions during gameplay. 📲
- Use headphones or earbuds for better sound quality and immersion. 🔊
- Connect to a stable Wi-Fi network or use cellular data if you have a good signal. 📶
Now that you’re ready, let’s go ahead with the list.
PUBG Mobile
If you love intense action and competition, PUBG Mobile is the game for you. This is the mobile version of the famous PC game developed by PUBG Studios, PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds.
It’s a “survival shooter” game where you and up to 99 other players land on an island and fight to be the last one standing. You can play solo, duo, or in squads of up to four players. Different maps, modes, and seasons offer unique challenges and rewards.
PUBG Mobile is one of iPhone’s most realistic and immersive battle royale games, with stunning graphics, smooth controls, and a huge fan base.
Do you think you can secure your first Winner Winner Chicken Dinner?
Developer: Tencent Games
Publisher: Tencent Games | KRAFTON
Release Date: February 9, 2018
Download: iOS
Mario Kart Tour
Coming from the beloved Nintendo franchise, Mario Kart Tour is a racing game where you can play your favorite characters from the Mario universe and compete on tracks inspired by real-world locations.
You can also use items and unique skills to boost your speed and sabotage your opponents. It’s a fun and colorful game that appeals to players of all ages and skill levels.
You can play solo or with friends online in various modes and events. This is a must-have on your iPhone for Mario fans and racing enthusiasts.
Developer: Nintendo EPD
Publisher: Nintendo
Release Date: September 25, 2019
Download: iOS
Call of Duty: Mobile
Here’s one game that got most of us hooked during the lockdown. Call of Duty: Mobile is a first-person shooter game that lets you experience the thrill of warfare on your iPhone.
You can play in different modes, such as Team Deathmatch, Domination, Search and Destroy, and Battle Royale. You also get the option to customize your loadout, weapons, perks, and skins to suit your style.
This game is one of the most polished and action-packed shooters on mobile, with high-quality graphics, sound effects, and voice chat.
If you’re a fan of Call of Duty or FPS games in general, you’ll love Call of Duty: Mobile by Activision.
Developer: TiMi Studio Group
Publisher: Activision
Release Date: October 1, 2019
Download: iOS
Super Mario Run
Super Mario Run is one of the first mobile games featuring the iconic plumber Mario. It’s a platformer where you control Mario as he runs automatically through various levels filled with enemies, obstacles, and coins.
Tap the screen to make him jump, spin, wall-jump, and perform other actions. Super Mario Run is a simple but addictive game that captures the essence of classic Mario games.
You can play in different modes, such as World Tour, Toad Rally, and Remix 10. It also gives you the ability to build your kingdom with items and characters you collect along the way.
Developer: Nintendo EPD
Publisher: Nintendo
Release Date: December 15, 2016
Download: iOS
Into the Dead 2
If you’re looking for a zombie game that will make your heart race, Into the Dead 2 by PikPok might just be the one for you. Taking Into the Dead to the next level, this second part of the zombie survival game is where you must run through a post-apocalyptic world infested with undead hordes.
You can use weapons, vehicles, and companions to help you survive as long as possible. You can also follow a story mode that has multiple endings depending on your choices.
The graphics are stunning, the sound effects are realistic, and the gameplay is challenging. It all boils down to whether you’re ready to kill or get killed.
Developer: PikPok
Publisher: PikPok | Versus Evil
Release Date: August 28, 2017
Download: iOS
Among Us
Among Us by InnerSloth is a “social deduction” game where you play as crewmates or impostors on a spaceship.
As crewmates, you have to work together to complete tasks and find the impostors before they kill everyone. As impostors, you have to blend in with the crewmates and sabotage their mission while secretly eliminating them one by one.
This is a hilarious and entertaining game that requires communication, deception, and teamwork. You can play online or locally with up to 10 players in various maps and modes. It’s also very suitable to play during gatherings, such as parties with friends.
Developer: InnerSloth
Publisher: InnerSloth
Release Date: June 15, 2018
Download: iOS
RAID: Shadow Legends
If you love role-playing games, you’re going to enjoy this one the most. In RAID: Shadow Legends, you must collect and train hundreds of champions from different factions and races.
You can use them to fight in turn-based battles against enemies and bosses in a dark fantasy world. You can also join clans, participate in raids, compete in arenas, and explore dungeons.
It’s a rich and complex game that offers endless possibilities for customization and strategy. The graphics are stunning, the voice acting is superb, and the gameplay is engaging enough to keep you glued to the screen.
This game, developed by Plarium, offers a fantasy RPG experience with epic boss battles and strategic gameplay.
Developer: Plarium Games
Publisher: Plarium Global
Release Date: July 29, 2018
Download: iOS
Final Fantasy VIII Remastered
Final Fantasy VIII Remastered is the mobile version of the remastered edition of Final Fantasy VIII, one of the most acclaimed games in the Final Fantasy series.
It’s a role-playing game that follows the story of Squall Leonhart, a young mercenary who joins forces with other characters to stop a sorceress from destroying the world.
You can use a unique system called Junctioning to customize your characters’ abilities, weapons, and magic spells.
It’s a masterpiece of a game developed by Square Enix that combines an engaging story, memorable characters, beautiful music, and stunning visuals.
The remastered version features enhanced graphics, improved performance, and new features such as battle assist, no encounters, and speed boost.
This game is an excellent escape from reality, especially if you’ve loved playing Final Fantasy over the years.
Developer: Square Enix
Publisher: Square Enix
Release Date: March 24, 2021
Download: iOS
Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic
An engaging role-playing game set in the Star Wars universe, Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic sets about four thousand years before the events of the movies.
You play as a customizable character who can choose to follow the light or dark side of the Force. Recruit other characters to join your party, each with their personality, skills, and backstory.
You can use various weapons, items, powers, and skills to fight against enemies in real-time or turn-based combat.
Set on a quest to explore different planets, interact with NPCs, complete quests, and influence the outcome of the story.
This classic game by Aspyr Media offers an immersive experience for Star Wars fans and RPG lovers alike.
Developer: Aspyr Media
Publisher: Aspyr Media
Release Date: May 30, 2013
Download: iOS
Diablo Immortal
Diablo Immortal is an action role-playing game by Blizzard Entertainment that takes place between Diablo II and Diablo III, in which you can play as one of six classes: Barbarian, Monk, Wizard, Crusader, Demon Hunter, or Necromancer.
You can explore an open world full of dungeons, monsters, loot, quests, and secrets. Team up with other players online or join guilds to take on challenging raids, events, and PvP battles.
Diablo Immortal promises to deliver an authentic Diablo experience on mobile, with high-quality graphics, smooth gameplay, and deep customization options.
If you’re looking forward to playing Diablo IV or just an awesome ARPG on mobile, Diablo Immortal is definitely worth checking out.
Developer: Blizzard Entertainment, NetEase
Publisher: Blizzard Entertainment
Release Date: June 2, 2022
Download: iOS
Best Places to Find iOS Games
Now that we know about some of the best iPhone games out there, it’s time to see where you can find them. Below are some of my favorite places where you can download and install not only these games but also open a whole world of excellent mobile game titles.
#1. Apple Arcade
Apple’s exclusive gaming subscription service, Apple Arcade, offers a curated collection of high-quality games across various genres. You can access a vast library of games without ads or in-app purchases with a single subscription.
#2. Steam Mobile
Steam, a well-known game distribution service, also has a mobile app that allows you to browse and install iOS games. Discover indie gems, popular titles, and even participate in the Steam community while on the go.
#3. XCloud for iOS
Microsoft’s XCloud service lets you stream a selection of Xbox games directly to your iPhone. Immerse yourself in console-quality gaming experiences without needing a dedicated gaming console.
#4. Nvidia GeForce NOW
Nvidia GeForce NOW is a cloud gaming service that lets you play various PC games on your iPhone. Stream games from your existing PC library or access a growing collection of supported titles.
#5. Moonlight Game Streaming
With Moonlight, you can stream games from your PC to your iPhone, allowing you to enjoy your PC gaming library on a mobile device. The app provides a seamless and convenient way to play your favorite PC games anywhere on the go.
Closing Thoughts
Each year, the iPhone’s capability to handle high-end games is increasing. This means more and more developers are rolling out an iOS version of their games, rapidly growing the Apple games library.
The games listed here are just the tip of the iceberg, but they’re carefully selected based on reviews, popularity, and overall gameplay.
They all provide an unforgettable experience, irrespective of whether you’ve never touched the surface of mobile gaming or you’re a seasoned pro looking for more games to play.
Next, check out these exciting skateboard games you can play on iOS and Android!
